All operations have come to an abrupt end at the Gordon’s Bay Post Office, which officially closed its doors on Thursday 25 April.
It was labelled “the prettiest post office” by the Department of Post and Telegraphs of the first post-office building erected in Gordon’s Bay in 1939.
At that time, it was considered “one of the prettiest post offices in the union, the pride of the people of Gordon’s Bay and an object of admiration to visitors from far and near”.
At present, though, 95 years later, it’s doors are shut, a sign outside proclaiming its permanent closure, and litter covers the grounds outside where homeless people loiter and sleeping bags are packed under its famous milkwood trees.
The history of a postal service in Gordon’s Bay goes back 124 years, to 1891 when the first postal agency was established in the town then known as Vishoek. It is believed to have operated from a room along Beach Road.
A few months ago it was revealed that more than 200 South African Post Office branches would close nationwide.
About 28 of the branches set to be closed are situated in the Western region, which includes the Western Cape and Northern Cape.
In a statement posted on social media, the Gordon’s Bay Residents’ Association, bade farewell to years of history.
“Goodbye to years of history. The post office is a landmark in Gordon’s Bay. What will happen to the building, who knows,” the post read.
“It is a heritage site, so not much can be changed with the building. Our appreciation to Missie Gail and her staff for the service they have afforded the residents of Gordon’s Bay, working under challenging circumstances. Best wishes to all for the future.”
All postal services have now been moved to the Strand Post Office, where all the postal articles and post boxes will also be accommodated.
A resident of Gordon’s Bay, who asked not to be named, wanted to collect a parcel on Monday morning (29 April).
He said he was aware of the imminent closure of the post office, but never expected it to be actioned so soon.
“It’s definitely an inconvenience for us to travel all the way to Strand for our mail,” he related.
“I have relatives overseas and pick parcels up regularly. I guess now I’ll have to make the time to travel the extra distance. It’s a sad day indeed.”
